After a week of running 22km every day to raise awareness for rhino conservation and anti-poaching initiatives, Nelson Mandela Bay entrepreneur, runner and wildlife enthusiast, Sharon Jessop (50), is still feeling great and more determined than ever to complete her 62 consecutive days of running for this cause.
Jessop, who started the initiative a little more than a week ago, is attempting to set a Guinness World Record and simultaneously to raise funds for the One Land Love It (OLLI) Foundation and the Community Chest of the Eastern Cape.
The previous record for most consecutive half marathon distances run by a female was 50 days. The aim of the initiative is also to stimulate business for and promote SMMEs in and around Nelson Mandela Bay, which have been dealt severe economic blows by the extended lockdown.
This world record attempt will lead into the main “Run Wild for Rhinos” Expedition, which will follow in September 2021.
Jessop will then run from the Mozambique border back to Nelson Mandela Bay, symbolically linking all the reserves containing rhinos.
“I am actually feeling pretty good so far and the experience has been absolutely amazing,” Jessop said.
“Obviously the legs are tired, but I am blessed with excellent health. The weather was great the first two days, but it was very windy on Thursday and Friday and the weekend was a but drizzly with rain, but we carry on regardless,” she added.
Jessop mentioned that she would be running in all weather conditions every single day, since the record states the attempt must take place over consecutive days. “I will thus be running continuously irrespective of public holidays and weather conditions.”
She started running for the world record on Tuesday, September 22, from the Community Chest in Heugh Road, Walmer, and back again. She also changed her route daily in order to run past and promote other businesses around the Bay.
According to her, many individuals are supporting the initiative in their capacities as runners, walkers and entrepreneurs.
She had also received a great response from several companies.
“I must say that the morale is great. I make up my mind that I’m going to do it and then I just do it. I am inspired by so many amazing people, especially people that make extraordinary things happen,” Jessop said.
When asked what motivates her to work so hard for this cause, Jessop answered that she gets her motivation from helping with the fight against rhino poaching and not wanting to see animals or people suffer.
“It motivates me, knowing that we can make a difference in the lives of our rhinos and our people.
“My motivation comes from visualising a world where no animals are poached for ridiculous reasons and no people go hungry.”
When she does not run to help save the lives of animals, Jessop, who also holds a law degree, spends time with her husband of 24 years, Craig, their two sons, Joshua and Odwa, and her 73-year-old mother, who lives with them.
“We also have three cats and two dogs. I love spending time with my family and our weekends often involve a run and multiple lazy braais,” she said.
Anyone interested in running with Jessop, donating or getting involved by having their business promoted, can contact her on 061 510 4657 or send an e-mail to: sharon@gowellwithsharon.com.
All donations will go directly to the campaign that is entirely run via a Back-A-Buddy campaign page called, “One Land Love It & Community Chest EC.”
